The EU is asking the US for tariff concessions on wine and cheese

The EU has asked the United States to extend tariff concessions to an even wider range of goods, including cheese and wine, a spokesperson announced on Wednesday.

Last year, Brussels and Washington reached a tariff agreement under which the majority of EU exports to the United States are subject to a 15 per cent tariff, whilst US industrial goods imported into the 27-nation bloc are subject to a zero tariff.

Following a delay of several months, caused by US President Trump’s threats against Greenland and a ruling by the US Supreme Court, the European Union implemented this agreement in July.

The EU has now stated that it wants the 15 per cent tariff to be waived for a wider range of exported goods, thereby confirming a report by the European news portal “Euractiv”

“We have provided the United States with a detailed list of EU export products for which, in our view, tariffs could be reduced, and we are cooperating with the US on this matter,” – said EU Trade Representative Olof Gill.

The list includes wine, spirits and beer, as well as cheeses such as “Roquefort” and “Pecorino”, olive oil and olives, as well as medical devices and equipment.

The list includes export goods worth around €115 billion. Last year, the EU exported goods worth €554 billion to the United States.

“We really want to explore as many areas as possible where we could reduce or eliminate tariffs for the benefit of both countries, exporters and consumers,” said O. Gillas.